The best running trails around Hillside

Hillside offers a diverse selection of over 15 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include scenic lake loops, converted rail trails, and riverfront paths.

Yes, Hillside features a couple of easy running routes. These paths generally have gentle elevation changes, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. While specific easy routes aren't detailed here, the region's rail trails often provide a relatively flat and consistent surface.

For those seeking longer distances, Hillside offers challenging routes like the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. This trail follows a historic railway line, providing a relatively flat and consistent surface over 12.5 miles (20.1 km), perfect for extended runs.

Yes, you can find circular running routes in Hillside. An example is the River Road, Lighthouse Park, & Esopus Meadows Preserve loop, which offers a scenic 10.5 km (6.5 miles) experience along the river and through natural preserves.

Many running routes in Hillside offer beautiful scenery. Along the trails, you might encounter highlights such as Onteora Lake, which features in a popular loop trail. Other notable points of interest in the wider area include the Nice old railway bridge with a view and the Hudson River Overlook, offering picturesque vistas.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with gentle terrain and well-maintained surfaces, such as the region's rail trails, are generally suitable for families. These often provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages to run or walk together.

Many outdoor trails in the Hillside region are dog-friendly, provided your pet is kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations or local signage before heading out, but generally, the natural paths and rail trails welcome well-behaved dogs.

While the routes themselves might not have cafes directly on the trail, many trails are located close to Hillside's towns and villages. For example, the Kingston Point Rail Trail is near Kingston, where you can find various cafes and eateries to refuel after your run.

Runners frequently praise Hillside for its diverse and scenic landscape, offering a mix of lake paths, rail trails, and riverfront routes. The variety of terrain and generally gentle elevation changes are often highlighted, providing options for different fitness levels and preferences.

Yes, experienced runners looking for a challenge will find options like the Cove Point loop from Ellerslie. This route covers approximately 15.1 km (9.4 miles) with notable elevation changes, offering a more demanding workout.

Access to running routes via public transport in Hillside can vary. Some trailheads, especially those closer to urban centers like the Kingston Point Rail Trail, may be reachable by local bus services. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and routes for specific trail access points.

While popular routes like the Onteora Lake Loop can see more activity, exploring some of the longer rail trails or less-trafficked sections of riverfront paths, particularly during off-peak hours or weekdays, can offer a more solitary running experience. The region has enough variety to find quieter spots.